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Board approves options for siding at 211 North Can Street after applicant reports security-driven changes
Summary
The board approved multiple acceptable siding options for a modified approval at 211 North Can Street (BAR25-248), allowing the owner to remove a temporary lattice and either replace it with matching cedar, install matching paneling, or leave paneling as-is; the decision responds to the applicant’s post-construction changes made for security.
The Winchester City Board of Architectural Review approved BAR25-248, an application from the owner of 211 North Can Street to modify a prior exterior-approval, and specified three acceptable treatments for the property’s rear lower elevation.
Applicant Thomas Farrah (represented in the hearing) told the board that, after thefts, his crew installed plywood and lattice temporarily for security and later obtained matching cedar siding from an auction to replicate original material. He explained some work was completed while he was out of town and that he had obtained a license and insurance to address an encroachment over CSX-owned property. Farrah said he intends to replace the lattice and match the cedar siding where visible from the right public vantage points.
The board voted to approve the modified application and explicitly allowed three options for the rear lower portion of the building: (1) remove the lattice and replace with cedar siding to match the existing cedar, (2) remove the lattice and install matching paneling across the area to create a consistent appearance, or (3) remove the lattice and retain the paneling where installed, if the applicant prefers. The board recognized limited public visibility from the street and railroad approach and focused on visual consistency.
Board members expressed concern about the temporary plywood and lattice installed for security but accepted Farrah’s explanation of thefts and the need for immediate measures. Staff and the board noted that the rear elevation is primarily visible from the railroad line and that the siding options will improve the façade’s appearance and consistency.
Outcome: BAR25-248 was approved by motion; the board recorded vocal assent and allowed the property owner to proceed with any of the three approved finishing options. Staff will handle follow-up to confirm the chosen finish matches the existing cedar siding where required.
